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Can the end of one career be the beginning of something greater? Join us on the Barrier Busting Podcast as we unravel the dynamic journey of Financial Advisor, Alex Kastrinakis, whose career pivots are a masterclass in resilience and innovation. From the bustling electronics repair era at Pittsfield Radio to the unforeseen challenges of GE's downsizing, Alex transformed setbacks into stepping stones, proving that adaptability is key when industries shift and communities change.

As Alex reminisces about his time as a small business owner, he paints a vivid picture of Pittsfield Radio as more than just a shop, but also a community cornerstone akin to a lively barbershop. The decline of the electronics repair industry might have spelled disaster for his business, but Alex's strategic pivot to the audio-video market demonstrates the power of recognizing and seizing new opportunities when competitors falter. Through this candid reflection, Alex shares insights on steering businesses through adversity and the innovative mindset that turned potential pitfalls into successful ventures.

Navigating health struggles, Alex's journey didn't stop with audio-video success. Encouraged by friends and mentors, he ventured into the insurance industry—a pivotal moment that eventually led him to his true calling in financial planning. In our conversation, Alex reveals the perseverance needed to overcome rejections and financial challenges to build a thriving future in a new field. This episode is a testament to the transformative power of believing in oneself and the fulfillment found in advising others as they navigate their financial journeys. Tune in for an inspiring story of unexpected career paths leading to personal and professional satisfaction.

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What if you feel a strong urge to change course in midlife Join me, Matt Brooks, as I sit down with Sarah Hackenberg, who shares her extraordinary journey from a music major to a 20-year veteran in library science, and now a thriving entrepreneur. Sarah's story is one of adaptability and resilience, showcasing how skills honed as a school librarian can seamlessly transition into the world of entrepreneurship with her business, Grace in Cycles LLC.

Sarah's tale of transformation is a testament to the power of embracing change and the wisdom garnered from two decades in a challenging career. We explore how her ability to adapt to fluctuating school environments has equipped her with the confidence needed to tackle the entrepreneurial world. Moreover, we delve into the topic of ageism, discussing the vital role of experience and wisdom in society and how we can shift cultural perspectives to value these assets. Sarah's reflections offer an inspiring look at how our priorities and expertise evolve with age, encouraging listeners to pursue new endeavors with conviction.

As we wrap up our conversation, Sarah opens up about the emotional challenges of stepping into unfamiliar territories, particularly in midlife, and the strategies she uses to maintain focus and optimism. From navigating social media marketing to leveraging motivational resources, Sarah's story is filled with powerful strategies for overcoming doubt and embracing new paths. With compelling statistics on midlife entrepreneurship, we conclude with a celebration of the potential for success at any age, urging listeners to follow their passions beyond conventional career boundaries.

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Facing the grim prospect of being laid off after 50 can feel like a career death sentence. But it doesn't have to be that way? Join me, Matt Brooks, for this eye-opening episode of the Barrier Busting Podcast as we peel back the layers of ageism in the workplace. From my personal journey through the emotional and psychological impacts of job loss to hard-hitting statistics that reveal the widespread nature of age discrimination, this episode is a call to act against ageist stereotypes. Despite the Age Discrimination and Employment Act of 1967, ageism remains an insidious problem that's often hidden in plain sight. We'll expose how it shows up in jokes, microaggressions, and biased hiring and promotion practices, while also celebrating the invaluable contributions of older workers to entrepreneurship and innovation.

But the story doesn’t end there. We'll also navigate the rocky terrain of career pivots post-ageism, shedding light on the societal costs of sidelining experienced older adults. Discover how I found clarity by identifying what I no longer wanted in a career and re-imagining my ideal workday, and how I ultimately found a great pivot.